The Lighthouse

Long-running sailor haunt

What we say:

Set on the waterfront of Ao Chalong along the narrow road that runs south from Chalong Pier, the Lighthouse is impossible to miss thanks to its distinctive lighthouse tower.

The building once housed the Phuket Sailing Club before it moved up the road a few years ago, but the restaurant still has a nautical vibe with sailing memorabilia on the walls and heavy wood tables set over a spacious dining area with open-air views of the sea. There's even a notice board with messages from local sailors calling for crew.

Free WiFi and a pool table in the back add to the restaurant's relaxed atmosphere, which is suitable for everyone from drinking buddies to families with young kids.

We've found both the Thai and Western selections from the Lighthouse's voluminous menu to be consistently solid, though Thai dishes might be a tad watered down for Western tastes. The chuu chee curry with prawns is a favourite, and the burgers and pizzas will satisfy that comfort food craving, although the pizza with panang curry and chicken is a strangely delicious diversion from the typical.

The Lighthouse is also known for its hearty breakfasts -- two eggs, bacon, English sausage, baked beans, baguette, coffee or tea and juice for 220 baht isn't a bad way to start the day. Dishes run anywhere from 80 to 400 baht, with wine, beer and cocktails fetching 90 to 150 baht. , but the kitchen closes up at 21:00.